Maria "Mariska" Darvas Radu passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, in Coral Springs, Florida, at the age of 96.

Mariska was born on January 11, 1930, in Kolozsvár, Romania. In 1971, she moved to New York, where she built a successful career as an esthetician, running her own business in Manhattan for over 25 years. In 1999, she moved to Coral Springs, Florida, to be closer to her grandchildren, a decision that speaks to everything she valued most.

On December 10, 1949, she married Johann Radu, her husband of over 60 years until his passing on June 8, 2012.

Mariska was the heart of her family, a true matriarch in every sense. Her home was always open, the table was always full, and no one ever left hungry. She loved to cook, to travel, and above all, to be surrounded by the people she loved. Her life revolved around her son and her grandchildren, and she made sure they always knew it.

She was known for her warmth, her hospitality, and her wonderful sense of humor. She lived a full and well-traveled life, met more people than most of us ever will, and was loved by every single one of them. And she never left the house without her signature red lipstick.

Mariska is survived by her son, John, and her three grandchildren, Charlotte, Stephanie, and Luke.

A funeral service will be held on June 27 at 2:00 PM at Monarch Funeral Home. A celebration will follow at the Radu family home after the service. Mariska will be cremated.

In her honor, please raise a glass of Pálinka tonight, just as she did.

Please share your memories of Maria or express condolences to her family through our online guestbook. The online guestbook can be found by scrolling below to the Guestbook box below and clicking on the 'View & Sign' button. You can share your thoughts and memories, upload pictures and/or light a candle.